Big Game Meal: Eat Like an Athlete

The Super Bowl is here. What's on your menu for the big game? Does it stack up to what your favorite player will nosh on? It may surprise you just how healthy an NFL-sized meal really is.

Now, an athlete can burn as many as 3,000 calories during a game. That's more than an average person should eat in an entire day. But remember, you're not the one running back and forth on the field.

Here's what a typical pregame meal looks like for the New York Giants. Lean protein; like chicken, grilled fish, turkey meatballs, and maybe filet mignon; no sauce; no butter; healthy carbs, from steamed veggies, sweet potatoes, brown rice, or quinoa; and fruit.

Some guys make smoothies with yogurt or fruit, protein powder, maybe peanut butter or oatmeal.

Notice what's missing?

Saturated fats, heavy oils, and added sugar.

At half-time, they're snacking on energy bars, trail mix, and mini sandwiches-- plus, maybe bananas and a sports drink to keep their electrolytes in balance so they won't cramp up.

It's a far cry from the wings, pizza, chips and dip, and a beer or two that may be on our menus. So make like your favorite player, and eat healthy for the game. After all, you've got to stay in shape to cheer them on to victory.

From WebMD, I'm Dr. Michael Smith.